One Day in San Francisco

I've known most of the gentlemen that make up The Werehaus for a few years now, and it's great to see that they will be contributing their talents and raw, honest, street style to this project.

If you'd like to get to know them even better, come by the One Day in SF meetup tonight at the Secret Alley where you can chat with them in person. Event details can be found here. Hope to see ya'll tonight!

Brian: My name is Brian Chu. I've been directing and editing film and video at WEREHAUS for the past 4 years.

Austin: I'm Austin Chu, 31, and one of the founding partners of WEREHAUS - a creative production studio in San Francisco. I spend the majority of my time on the open road, seeking destination-less adventures and searching for solitude in strange places.

Can you tell us a little about your background and upbringing?

B: I grew up in the suburbs of Orange County — typical life I guess for a kid growing up around that time. My parents were always really hard working and supportive of the things we were interested in. My dad owned an auto repair shop and my mom took care of us at home.

A: I’m originally from Irvine, California — a city/suburb in Orange County located between Los Angeles and San Diego. My parents immigrated to southern California from Taiwan in the late 70's in search of the American dream. I spent summers chilling at local swimming pooIs and going on long road trips with my family, exploring America’s vast landscapes.

What inspired you to become a filmmaker?

B: Ever since I was a kid, I remember watching my dad take photographs. I always wanted to play with this home video cameras. Once I started skateboarding and riding bikes, it gave me a reason to take one out to film. When I got home, I would plug it into the VCR and review the funny things that happened that day. It wasn't until recently that I really felt like I was in a position to influence ideas or create content that had emotion. I'm inspired to share moments and this is something that just fell into place.

A: I never thought I would become a filmmaker, and it’s not something I completely identify with. For me, I see filmmaking as a vehicle for my curiosity, more than a profession. I’m moved by the struggle that people endure on a daily basis; it inspires me to be honest with myself and connects me with humanity.

Who or what do you most admire?

B: People who have a sense of direction and a distinct sense of style. Artists and musicians are usually good about finding this and it resonates with others. I also admire people who can be creative and and make money from their ideas.

A: I admire the freedom of birds and women CEO's.

What do you love about SF?

B: SF is small, at times rough around the edges, and really is diverse in its culture. It's awesome that people are usually open to interaction, and you have a chance everyday to meet someone new.

A: I love when the ocean is stormy and when the dense fog rolls in.

What do you fear most for SF?

B: I fear SF will lose its art, culture, and style. It has been a place for renegades and people who really didn't want to follow everyone else. It's known for being free, progressive, and at times anti-establishment. Those things are quickly being lost and it's becoming just a financial destination for other businesses and industries.

A: I fear San Francisco is losing its place as a cornerstone for culture and diversity.

What do you hope for SF in the next 20 years?

B: I hope we can learn to balance all the change that's happening — keep the essence of the city yet provide opportunities for people who want to move here. We all needs jobs and money to pay rent, so hopefully that continues to provide.